Errata

None discovered thus far.

Program Notes

Mozart's famous opera The Marriage of Figaro, composed in 1786, was the first of his greatest series of operas. The combination of DaPonte's witty text and Mozart's sparkling music was irresistible, and the opera was an immediate success. The adventures of the resourceful barber (who appears again in Rossini's Barber of Seville) are illustrated by some of the most delightful music Mozart ever wrote. The overture, which is in one tempo throughout, is a pure gem of spontaneous melody and skillful design.

- Program Note by Program Notes for Band

In 1786, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart composed his wonderful opera Le Nozzi [sic] di Figaro. In the opera Count Almaviva tries to seduce the fiancée of Figaro, his valet. Eventually, through four acts full of complicated intrigue, he is outwitted. In his music, Mozart, at times in a humorous way, reflects the numerous social and erotic intrigues with both empathy and insight.

The brilliant overture is just as vivacious and witty as the opera itself. Mozart delightfully anticipates the passion and playful love that is to come. The skillful transcription for concert band by the Japanese composer Tohru Takahashi certainly does justice to this enchanting music.